Al Jardine’s latest EP, Islands In The Sun, includes a powerful collaboration with Neil Young that dates back to studio sessions from over a decade ago. The track, “My Plane Leaves Tomorrow (Au Revoir),” recorded live during the making of Jardine’s 2010 solo album A Postcard from California, has finally been released, offering a timely message amid ongoing global tensions.
“The song feels especially relevant right now given the turmoil in the Middle East,” Jardine told Rolling Stone. “It tells the story of a soldier heading off to serve, caught between duty and personal sacrifice.”
The live studio session brought together an impressive lineup, including Stephen Stills and the late David Crosby. Adding a unique layer to the track, Flea—known for his work with the Red Hot Chili Peppers—contributed a trumpet performance, having previously played bass on Postcard.
Looking ahead, Jardine will hit the road this summer with the Pet Sounds Band, originally formed to support Beach Boys co-founder Brian Wilson’s solo work. Jardine plans to bring songs from Islands In The Sun to the stage, including the EP’s title track. “We’ve got some great material that fans haven’t heard yet,” he said. “It’s going to be a good time.”
Meanwhile, Neil Young is set to headline Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage this year after a brief cancellation. On January 3rd, Young clarified the mix-up on his website, stating: “Due to an error in the information received, I had decided to not play the Glastonbury festival, which I always have loved. Happily, the festival is now back on our itinerary and we look forward to playing! Hope to see you there!”
Outside of music, Young has continued to make headlines for his outspoken political views. In a recent public statement, he strongly backed Bruce Springsteen amid the artist’s clashes with Donald Trump. Responding to Trump’s online criticisms, Young declared: “Bruce and thousands of musicians think you are ruining America. You worry about that instead of the dyin’ kids in Gaza. That’s your problem. I am not scared of you. Neither are the rest of us.”
